The Art of the Samurai

The Conqueror's Club Newsletter Issue #6: Samurai Mentality—Forged in Perseverance

Welcome Conquerors,

In this edition, we dive into the samurai mentality, exploring the characteristics that set them apart and the challenges they persevered through. We also include some quotations from notable authors and historians who have written extensively on the subject.

The Samurai Mentality: Strength through Discipline

The samurai were icons of discipline, honor, and stoic endurance. They followed the Bushido code, which is described by Nitobe Inazō in Bushido: The Soul of Japan as "the code of moral principles which the samurai were required or instructed to observe. It is not a written code, yet it was as binding as any legislation." This was an ultimate “bro” code unlike any other, that amongst the samurai brotherhood embodied loyalty, courage, respect, honesty, compassion, and honor, creating a mindset that was as unique as it was powerful.

Four Core Characteristics of the Samurai

• Courage: Samurai developed physical and mental strength to face life-and-death situations with composure. Yukio Mishima, in his book Hagakure: Samurai Ethic and Modern Japan, reflects on the importance of courage, stating, "The way of the samurai is found in death. When it comes to either/or, there is only the quick choice of death."

• Loyalty: Loyalty, or "chūgi," was about unwavering commitment to one's lord or daimyo, a principle that was reflected in the samurai's actions, decisions, and way of life. This sense of loyalty was deeply ingrained in samurai culture and had a significant impact on the feudal structure of Japan. How does this relate to me? The loyalty of the samurai instilled a sense of individual purpose by aligning their personal values with a greater cause. The lesson is, use your values to motivate and curate a greater cause for yourself, and stay loyal to those who do the same to you.

• Honor: Honor was central to the samurai's identity. James Clavell, in Shōgun, encapsulates the weight of honor with his quote: "Duty is a mountain, death is a feather."

• Discipline: Samurai rigorously trained in martial arts and strategy, embodying discipline. Miyamoto Musashi, in The Book of Five Rings, emphasized training as the core of the samurai's way: "Do not think dishonestly. The Way is in training."

Challenges the Samurai Faced

Samurai were prominent in Japan from the 12th century through the 19th century, with their influence peaking during the Kamakura, Muromachi, and Edo periods. They played a significant role in shaping Japan's history, politics, and culture during this time.

Living in turbulent times, there were constant threats and conflicting loyalties that occurred quite often. Maintaining constant and unwavering honor was an ongoing challenge, knowing that any misstep could have severe repercussions.

Despite these challenges, the samurai's unyielding resolve allowed them to meet adversity with steadfastness and discipline. Their mindset has inspired generations, demonstrating to all of us around the world, that with courage and honor, even the most daunting obstacles can be overcome.

Keep conquering, and never stray from the path of perseverance. 

The Conqueror's Club

P.S.

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